Factors Considered in an Adoption Petition

There are numerous reasons why someone may want to adopt a child; however, despite the number of children looking for parents, not everyone who petitions to adopt a child will be allowed to do so. Before filing an adoption petition, it is important for everyone to understand what factors will be considered.

Criminal Record is Important

The most important facet that the adoption board is going to consider is whether or not the potential home is safe for a child. Therefore, there are a few items on a criminal record that would immediately disqualify someone from adopting a child. These include child endangerment, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, recent drug-related offenses, and anything remotely similar to child exploitation. Crimes that would indicate that an environment might not be safe for a child will result in an immediate denial of an adoption petition.

Finances will Matter

Once the investigator understands that the environment is safe for a child, they will start the process of assessing whether or not someone is fit to be a parent. Children are expensive and need to be provided for. The board is going to take a look at the status of someone’s finances to see if they have the assets that are necessary to raise a child. Kids require food, clothing, school supplies, and funding for social and extracurricular activities. If this would strain someone’s finances to the breaking point, they may not have their adoption petition granted.

A Home Inspection May Take Place

One of the last steps in determining whether or not a petition will be granted may involve a home inspection. Someone from the adoption board may come out and take a look at the home. They will want to make sure that the child has a safe room to sleep in, space and play, and no easy access to dangerous items. They may take a look at the various parts of the building to ensure that they are up to code and take a look at the backyard as well, if there is one. They are charged with making sure that the home is a suitable place for a child.

There are many different factors that will play a role in the success or failure of an adoption petition. Anyone who is considering adopting a child should contact an experienced attorney for more information on the process.